Pula Arena travel guide

The Pula Arena is an iconic symbol of Pula, renowned for its historical significance and architectural grandeur. This amphitheater, one of the six largest surviving Roman arenas in the world, dates back to the 1st century AD.

Constructed during the reign of Emperor Vespasian, the Pula Arena once hosted gladiatorial combats and could accommodate approximately 20,000 spectators. The building showcases the Roman Empire's architectural prowess with its elliptical shape, and perfectly preserved walls and arches.

In the Middle Ages, the arena was used for knight tournaments and fairs. During the Renaissance, it faced threats of stone pilfering for local building projects. Thankfully, in 1583, an order from the Venetian Senate saved it from destruction.

Today, the Pula Arena serves as a popular tourist attraction and a venue for concerts, film festivals, and reenactments of gladiator fights, continuing to resonate with the vibrant energy of its glorious past.

Pula is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Pula offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Pula and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Temple of Augustus, Forum Square, Pula Citadel, Historical and Maritime Museum of Istria, and Verudela Canyon.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Pula has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Pula, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Croatia!

Pula Arena is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Pula, Croatia. If you're flying in, Pula Airport is approximately 3.8 miles (6.1 km) away from Pula. From there, you can easily reach Pula Arena by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Pula, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Pula Arena, which is located 0.3 miles (0.5 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Pula Arena, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Flavijevska ul. , 52100, Pula, Croatia, Croatia.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Pula Arena!

With a rental car, discovering the popular Pula Arena and Croatia's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 9 reputable rental car companies near Pula Airport and the city of Pula, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Croatia cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Pula and beyond.

The best time to explore Pula Arena in Croatia is during the late spring and early autumn months, particularly May, June, September, and October. These months offer pleasant weather, with temperatures typically ranging from 20°C to 28°C, perfect for outdoor explorations. Additionally, these periods see fewer crowds than the peak summer months, allowing for a more relaxed experience. A standout event to consider is the annual Pula Film Festival held in July, where films are showcased inside the Arena itself, offering a unique cultural twist to your visit. Another notable event is the Opera Season in August, which transforms the Arena into a grand open-air theatre. However, these events attract a larger number of tourists, so if you plan to attend, book your tickets and accommodation well in advance. Regardless of when you choose to visit, experiencing Pula Arena under a clear blue sky or starlit night is a spectacle in itself.

Conveniently explore Pula Arena and plenty more captivating attractions in Pula by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Pula Arena and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Pula has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Pula Arena below.

Aside from Pula Arena, Pula is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Pula, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Temple of Augustus, Forum Square, and Pula Citadel.

Temple of Augustus is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Pula, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Temple of Augustus is Forum b. B, 52100, Pula, Croatia.

Another appreciated attraction in Pula is Forum Square. Like Temple of Augustus, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars among 5,800 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Forum 3, 52100, Pula, Croatia.

Pula Citadel is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Pula. This establishment and top attraction in Pula has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,600 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Gradinski uspon 10, 52100, Pula, Croatia.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Pula below.